Book Review: The Christmas Bus by Melody Carlson

Title: The Christmas Bus
Author: Melody Carlson
Hardcover: 176 pages
Published: October 1, 2006
Publisher: Fleming H. Revell Company

from Goodreads:

 

The people of Christmas Valley always celebrate Christmas to the fullest extent. The mayor plays Santa, every business is holiday themed, and there's a nativity for the kids each Christmas Eve. This town knows Christmas. But this year nothing goes according to plan. Shepherd's Inn is full of strangers, Mad Myrtle is causing problems, and a young couple with a baby due any minute rolls in to the middle of town in their Partridge Family-style bus. It's hardly the holiday Christmas Valley wanted--but it may be just what they need. This charming novella is sure to become a new Christmas tradition for readers who love a great holiday story.

Alleluialu's Review

 

This book only has 176 pages, but it is definitely full of stories. As you read in the synopsis, Edith and Charles open their Bed & Breakfast to strangers for Christmas after learning that their children will not be coming home. Charles, the pastor of the local church, gives a sermon on practicing hospitality and remembering that you may be entertaining angels unawares. Along comes Myrtle out of nowhere - a crochety old woman who gets in everyone's face and certainly affects all the guests and townspeople. Then there is the young couple, Collin and Amy, in their hippie-style painted Christmas Bus. Amy is pregnant and about to give birth any day. That outcome is predictable. Actually, it's a Christmas book, so the outcome is predictable, but the way it comes about is interesting and entertaining. The characters have such distinct personalities and there are so many little side stories to read. This was a delightful book. I may have to look for one of the other 149 books Melody Carlson has written. Very well done!

I gave this book 5 stars. It was a very clean, charming Christmas read. You can get your copy from your local library or here.